Power of human Heart and Brain

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the power output of the human heart and brain, specifically calculating the heart's power at approximately 1.111 watts based on a blood flow of 4 liters per minute and a blood pressure of 125 mm Hg. The conversation references Michio Kaku's "Physics of the Impossible," questioning whether the brain can generate around 20 watts under average conditions. It is established that the brain derives its energy from chemical reactions involving nucleoside triphosphate (NTP), rather than from blood pressure.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic human physiology, specifically cardiovascular and neurological systems.
  • Knowledge of energy measurement units, particularly watts.
  • Familiarity with biochemical processes, especially those involving nucleoside triphosphate (NTP).
  • Awareness of the concepts presented in Michio Kaku's "Physics of the Impossible."
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the biochemical role of nucleoside triphosphate (NTP) in cellular energy production.
  • Explore the physiological mechanisms of blood pressure and its effects on organ function.
  • Investigate the energy consumption of the human brain during various activities.
  • Read Michio Kaku's "Physics of the Impossible" for insights on energy in biological systems.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physiology, biochemistry enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the energy dynamics of the human body.

gianeshwar
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If heart forces 4 litres of blood per minute and blood pressure is 125 mm of Hg column and we consider pulse rate as 60 beats per minute then by calculation power of heart comes as approx. 1.111 watts.
If I consider the person is just lying down and obviously brain is also active .
My question is " Can brain under these average conditions be of about 20 watts as told in Michio Kaku's book"Physics of the impossibe" as I remember.
 
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The brain isn't powered by the pressure of the blood. It gets its energy through the sugar etc molecules that are transported in that blood stream.
 
rumborak said:
The brain isn't powered by the pressure of the blood. It gets its energy through the sugar etc molecules that are transported in that blood stream.
Means energy from chemical reactions?
 
Yes. Specifically, a molecule called nucleoside triphosphate (NTP) is responsible for providing energy to cells.
 
rumborak said:
The brain isn't powered by the pressure of the blood.
Unless you get really angry.
 
Thank You friends!
 

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